The Delta State Government has notified owners of buildings and structures on natural drainage and waterways to vacate or face imminent demolition of such structures.
The Director General, Special Duties, Delta State, Chief Frank Omare, has stated that the state government will soon embark on demolition of structures blocking the free flow of water along natural waterways in major towns in the state.
Omare, who made this known when he visited some structures blocking free flow of water in the natural ways in Warri South and Uvwie Local Government Area, said the government would not be selective when bringing down structures blocking the natural waterways.
Omare, who visited Nemejor Street, Off Akpakpa, Auntie Rose Street, KFT, Haven Estate in Ugboroke Community, Wood Market, Ekpan and Uti Street, Effurun, stated that he went for the visit on the mandate of the governor, Rt. Sheriff Oborevwori, to identify structures blocking the natural waterways.
As reported by YourCitiNews, three weeks ago, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori carried out an inspection tour of waterways and drainage systems in the city of Warri and its environs, identifying illegal structures blocking the free flow of water.
According to Omare, “Whenever there is little rain, everywhere would be flooded because a lot of buildings are standing on waterways and as a responsible government we cannot allow it.
“Some of the structures were illegally approved, some of them were approved, some did not have approval, hence my office was directed by the governor to go round, identify and pull down those structures blocking the natural waterways.
“It’s not going to be selective, it will affect both the poor, rich and politicians including our party members, provided that we identify that it is an obstruction and blocking the free flow of water.
“We appreciate that times are hard, we can’t because of that allow irresponsible activities against our environment.
“We are very ready in few days from now to begin to do the needful. If your structure is built on the natural waterways, remove it, or if you use the government owned drains as a dump site, stop the act because the government will no longer allow it.
“Very soon, we will be moving round with a mobile court to restrict people from using illegal structures along the road side and also, those plying their trade under high tension, so that our people can be safe.”
